FAO, CORAF and AfricaSeeds organize jointly in Abidjan from 11 to 13 February 2026, a subregional workshop of strategic reflection on the development of the seed sector in Africa from the West. A high-level meeting that brings together experts, researchers, regional institutions, farmers' organizations and private sector actors.

The sub-regional workshop aims to set the bases for “more inclusive, competitive and resilient” seed systems to by 2035. The participants intend to develop a road map. ambitious capable of sustainably transforming production and distribution seeds in the region. The stakes are high, in a context marked by demographic pressure, climate change and the need to ensure food safety.

Executive Director from CORAF, Dr. Mounini Savadogo , emphasized the role the central role of seeds in any agricultural policy. According to him, “the seeds are the backbone of production. Without seeds of quality, there can be no agricultural performance.” According to him, they determine the yield potential of crops and directly influence food security, resilience in the face of climate hazards as well as competitiveness of agricultural sectors.

For Dr. Savadogo, the Abidjan meeting must mark a decisive turning point. “This is not just another meeting. We want to lead to concrete strategic guidelines and operational,” he insisted.

For his part, Mr. Adin Bloukounon, who was speaking at the name of the FAO Subregional Coordinator for West Africa, a recalled that seeds represent the strategic entry point for transformation of agri-food systems. They not only condition productivity, but also the nutritional quality of productions and operators' income.

The work should lead to strategic guidelines aimed at strengthening the supply of quality seeds, to improve the application of texts in force and to support the establishment of a seed policy regional adapted to the realities of producers in West Africa and Sahel